The Subaru Impreza III Hatchback 2.0i, produced between 2007 and 2011, represented a significant evolution in Subaru’s compact car lineup. Part of the GD/GG chassis generation (often referred to as the “blobeye” and later “hawkeye” due to headlight styling changes), this variant offered a blend of practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and a relatively accessible price point. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Impreza hatchback family, the 2.0i with the automatic transmission aimed to provide comfortable and reliable transportation for families and commuters, while still retaining Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system. It served as a key model in the North American, European, and Australian markets, where compact hatchbacks with AWD were gaining popularity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza III Hatchback |
| Type | 2.0i (140 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.6 kg/Hp, 104.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4400 rpm (137.19 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1994 cm3 (121.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 538 l (19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4415 mm (173.82 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza 2.0i was the EJ205 engine, a 1994cc naturally aspirated 2.0-liter horizontally opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru, was known for its smooth operation and relatively low center of gravity, contributing to the car’s balanced handling. The EJ205 utilized a multi-point fuel injection system and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. While not a high-performance engine, it provided adequate power for everyday driving. The 140 horsepower peak was achieved at 5600 rpm, with 186 Nm (137.19 lb-ft) of torque available at 4400 rpm. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for buyers prioritizing convenience over outright performance. This transmission was electronically controlled and featured adaptive learning to optimize shift points based on driving style.
Driving Characteristics
The Impreza 2.0i Automatic offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.5 seconds, which was adequate for merging onto highways and navigating city streets, but noticeably slower than the manual transmission versions or the more powerful 2.5-liter models. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and the four-speed design meant that the engine often felt strained during quick acceleration. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, making it a particularly appealing choice in regions with snow or rain. The steering was precise, and the suspension offered a good balance between comfort and handling, although it wasn’t as sporty as some of its competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Safety features included ABS brakes, front and side airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Higher trim levels, often denoted with additional packages, could add features like a sunroof, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels, and heated front seats. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza III Hatchback utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous limited-slip center differential, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. The car’s relatively low curb weight of 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs) helped to mitigate the performance limitations of the 140 hp engine.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza 2.0i Automatic received generally positive reviews, particularly for its all-wheel-drive capability and practicality. Critics noted that the automatic transmission dulled the driving experience compared to the manual version, and the engine lacked the punch of the 2.5-liter models. However, it was praised for its fuel efficiency, which was competitive for its class. Compared to other compact hatchbacks with automatic transmissions, the Impreza offered a unique combination of all-wheel-drive traction and Subaru’s renowned reliability. The 2.5i models offered significantly more power, but at a higher price point. The 1.5i models were more fuel-efficient but lacked the performance and all-wheel-drive capability of the 2.0i.
Legacy
The Subaru Impreza III Hatchback 2.0i Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The EJ205 engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing belt replacement (typically every 105,000 miles), and inspection of the cooling system. In the used car market, these Imprezas are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and dependable all-wheel-drive vehicle. While not a collector’s item, the 2.0i Automatic represents a solid and practical choice for those seeking a reliable and capable compact hatchback.
